Must-Have Makeup Brushes

For a long time (read: my whole life until 2 years ago) I barely used makeup brushes. I just didn’t see the point! I applied my foundation and eyeshadow with my hands and only used brushes to apply blush. When a friend suggested I try Real Techniques I was introduced to a whole new world of makeup application!

Created by Sam and Nic Chapman (YouTube stars of the beauty channel Pixiwoo) Real Techniques brushes are made with synthetic bristles that are 100% cruelty free. They are super soft and each brush is created to have several uses. So while they have a wide range of options you really only need a few to complete your makeup collection.

They can be tricky to find in Canada but Farley Co distributes an extensive selection of their products (Farley Co also carries the hard to find Real TechniquesBold Metal Collection!) to various retailers in Canada.

This small angled brush is perfect for applying under-eye concealer. I also use it to cover spots and blemishes and it gives flawless application. One thing to note is that it needs to be cleaned regularly with brush cleaner or soap and water, otherwise product will build up and you will start to get a streaky application.

This is my go-to for applying bronzer. It works perfectly to contour my cheekbones and even apply highlighter. This brush works really well if you are contouring along your hairline/jawline as well. You can use this with cream or powder makeup so whatever product you are using it will blend seamlessly.

This is my favourite brush of all. You can use this to apply powder foundation but I like to use it for setting my makeup and blending. After I apply blush and bronzer I use it all over my face to buff everything in and make sure there are no harsh lines. I also use it to apply my setting powder to ensure my liquid foundation stays put all day long. The bristles are so fluffy and soft!

This is the brush I use if I need to add setting powder or highlight in a targeted area. It’s like the mini version of the Powder Brush! Super fluffy and soft, it’s ideal for applying highlight to the cheek bones or setting powder under the eyes. You could even use this to blend your eyeshadow if you’re doing a smokey eye!

These brushes can be found at in Canada at Farley Co, London Drugs and select Rexall, Pharma Plus, Pharmasave, Jean Coutu, Uniprix, Familiprix and Lawtons Drugs.

In the US they can be found at select retailers in the US (including Target and Walgreen locations).

What are your go-to makeup brushes? Let me know in the comments!

* This post contains some products that were sent to me for consideration. As always, my reviews and opinions are my own.

I can’t say that I have favourites right now, my brush collection is a mix from beauty box subs and things I got here and there. I’ve been wanting a kabuki brush for my powders, but it sounds like the powder brush would be perfect!

I have a few other brushes too that are from beauty boxes or random makeup palettes. I wanted a kabuki brush and ended up getting the TARTE Bamboo Foundation brush and it works so well for powder foundation!

I will need to try the powder brush! It looks so big and fluffy. Its great how you noted how the concealer brush needs to be washed often to avoid clumping of the bristles. I find the same thing happens to my RT pointed foundation brush. That can be a deciding factor on whether or not someone whats to pick the brush up.
Have you tried the RT contour brush before? It’s my favourite brush to use to blend out my undereye concealer really quickly.

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